Light Nasal Breathing is breathing retraining: nose only, with softer and smaller breaths and a little air hunger for a few minutes, then rest. Breathing retraining that teaches quieter, nose-only breathing. Programs like this are offered by physiotherapists alongside usual care.
How do you do Light Nasal Breathing?
- Sit upright, shoulders relaxed, one hand on your belly.
- Breathe in and out through your nose only, a little softer and smaller than usual.
- A slight wish for more air is fine. Keep it gentle.
- Then rest and breathe normally.
The rhythm
In 3sOut 4s
The default rhythm is the gentlest standard one; the app also offers 3 · 5.
What does the research say?
Breathing retraining that teaches quieter, nose-only breathing. Programs like this are offered by physiotherapists alongside usual care.
Evidence grade B · Studied: At least one randomized trial of this technique with mostly positive results, or a close member of a well-studied family. Grades describe evidence for feeling calmer, more alert or more focused, never a claim about treating a condition.
Sources
- Santino et al. 2020, Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews CD001277
- Cooper et al. 2003, Thorax 58:674
- Bowler et al. 1998, Medical Journal of Australia 169:575
- Holloway & West 2007, Thorax 62:1039
- Vagedes et al. 2024, European Journal of Medical Research 29:42
Who should take care with Light Nasal Breathing?
Before a session the app shows a short caution when it applies:
- With panic attacks or panic disorder: A slight wish for more air is expected. If it makes you anxious, breathe normally or stop.
- With asthma or COPD or another lung condition: Keep following your care plan. This doesn't replace your medication.
Oxigen is a wellness app, not a medical device. It does not diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any medical condition. If you have a health condition or are pregnant, talk to your doctor before starting, and keep following your care plan.
How Oxigen guides Light Nasal Breathing
- Rhythms: 3 · 4 or 3 · 5 seconds.
- Session length: 3, 4 or 5 minutes.
- Included with Oxigen Premium.
- An orb, a rhythm ring, haptics and optional sound guide each breath, with “I feel unwell” always on screen.
Similar calming techniques
Updated November 8, 2026. Copy reviewed against Oxigen’s claims policy and technique reference.